Using data from archaeological excavations, patent filings, and marketing catalogs, this book provides a broad view of the introduction, spread, and use of mass-produced coffin hardware in North America. At the book's heart is a standardized typology of coffin hardware that recognizes stylistic and functional changes and a fresh look at the meanings and uses of the various motifs and decorative elements. Within the discussion of mass-produced coffin hardware in North America is new work connecting the North American industry with its British antecedents and a fresh analysis of the prime factors that led to the introduction and spread of mass-produced coffin hardware. Extensively illustrated with examples of coffin hardware to aid scholars and professionals in identification.

Death Across Oceans: Archaeology of Coffins and Vaults in Britain, America, and Australia brings together the leading researchers in historic mortuary practice from Britain, North America, and Australia. It is the first book dedicated to the material culture associated with burial in the historic, English-speaking world. It combines reflections and evaluations from the pioneer scholars who initiated research in this field during the 1980s with studies by young scholars now pushing the research into a new and wider range of issues. This volume will be the seminal work in this field for some time, providing key analyses and essential bibliographic routes into site-specific literature, and setting the research agenda for the future.